A Second Career in Health Care

Economists and staffing experts say that while other industries are cutting back and laying off employees, the health care industry is in dire need of workers. In fact, health care will generate 3 million new wage and salary jobs between 2006 and 2016, more than any other industry, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A Second Career in Health Care

People are coming out of other industries and getting into health care because it’s still growing. The industry is growing because of the aging population and because the political climate favors improving health care, which requires more workers.

About 60 percent of hires are older students, suggesting they are switching careers. Those who embark on a second career in health care typically enter two-year programs in fields that require passing a certification exam. Specifically, there’s a demand for physical therapists because of the aging baby boomer generation. And because of a shortage of physicians, many facilities are hiring nurse practitioners and physician assistants. These professionals can share in the call schedule, assist in the OR and cover the office when the physician is needed in the hospital.

The average age of nursing school graduates increasing, an indicator that many are starting second careers. More male nurses, many in their late 20s and early 30s moving from other industries.